Organizers behind a new community-led initiative are looking for strong male role models to mentor young black men.

Former Urban League CEO Michael Alexander will facilitate the event, “Enough is Enough,” Thursday, July 30, at the Bethel AME Church in Portland. The meeting is a call to action for men who would like to make a positive change in the Black community.

Organizers hope that this new initiative will be a brand-new beginning for Black Portlanders. They aim to pair young men who don’t have male role models in their lives with men from the community.

The “Enough is Enough” event has put the call out for these men; they welcome fathers, pastors, friends, cousins and community organizers. All those who feel called to serve are encouraged to RSVP to the event with organizer Antoinette Edwards.

The reclaiming community from tragedy and violence is a core value behind “Enough is Enough.” One goal is to steer youth away from violence, another is to reclaim the value of former gang members as mentors and activists.

Edwards said the voices of former gang members are important to include because their insights and lives still matter.

“We are looking for true real life stories that will put a person and a face to what is happening in our community,” Edwards said.

The event will build on previous intervention efforts such as Roy Jay’s Project Clean Slate. Jay will be on hand at the meeting to provide guidance and resources for those attending.

If successful, the “Enough is Enough” event will call the community to make meaningful changes in the future. For now, Edwards hopes to see a united community who are working to benefit and foster youth potential.

“We have lost too many young men who could have made a positive difference,” she said.